Top 5 things to do in Etretat : How to plan your tour
Visit Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Chapel
Standing high above the town, Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Chapel has watched over sailors and fishermen for generations. Although the original chapel was destroyed during the Second World War, it was faithfully rebuilt and remains one of Étretat’s most peaceful landmarks.
The short climb to the chapel rewards visitors with sweeping views across the cliffs, beach, and English Channel. It’s an ideal place to pause, enjoy the scenery, and appreciate the maritime heritage that has shaped Étretat for centuries.
The surrounding clifftops are dotted with memorials and viewpoints, making this an excellent stop while exploring the coastal walking trails. Many visitors consider it one of the most photogenic locations in the entire region, particularly on clear days when the coastline stretches for miles in both directions.
Walk the Famous Cliffs
No visit to Étretat is complete without walking the spectacular cliff-top trails. The paths on both sides of the town offer breathtaking views of the English Channel and the famous white chalk cliffs that have made Étretat one of France’s most photographed destinations.
The western trail leads to the iconic Falaise d’Aval and L’Aiguille (The Needle), while the eastern trail offers quieter viewpoints and dramatic coastal scenery. Along the way you’ll discover hidden coves, panoramic lookouts, and endless opportunities for photography. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical, when the cliffs glow in shades of gold and pink.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or simply looking for an easy scenic stroll, the cliff walks provide unforgettable views and are the highlight of any visit to Normandy.
Visit the Jardins d'Étretat
Perched above the cliffs, the Jardins d’Étretat combine contemporary art with beautifully landscaped gardens. Inspired by Claude Monet’s impressionist paintings and Normandy’s natural landscape, the gardens feature sculpted hedges, modern artworks, and peaceful pathways overlooking the sea.
Each section has its own artistic theme, blending nature and creativity into a unique outdoor gallery. The gardens also provide one of the finest viewpoints over the famous cliffs, making them a favourite stop for photographers.
Open throughout much of the year, they offer a quieter experience than the busy cliff paths and are well worth allowing time to explore.
Relax on Étretat Beach
The pebble beach at Étretat sits directly beneath the towering cliffs, creating one of France’s most iconic coastal landscapes. While it isn’t a sandy beach, it offers a wonderful place to relax, enjoy the sea air, and admire the impressive natural arches from below.
Visitors often spend time watching fishing boats return to harbour, exploring the shoreline at low tide, or simply enjoying lunch in one of the cafés overlooking the beach.
The promenade is lively throughout the summer months and provides easy access to restaurants, souvenir shops, and local seafood specialities. It’s also the perfect place to appreciate the sheer scale of the cliffs rising above the coastline.
Discover the World of Arsène Lupin
Fans of literature shouldn’t miss Le Clos Lupin, the former home of author Maurice Leblanc, creator of the famous fictional gentleman thief Arsène Lupin.
Through interactive exhibits, visitors follow Lupin’s adventures while learning about Leblanc’s life and the inspiration Étretat provided for many of his stories. The house combines original furnishings, multimedia displays, and beautiful gardens to create an engaging museum experience.
Even visitors unfamiliar with the novels often enjoy discovering how Étretat’s mysterious cliffs became closely associated with hidden treasures and secret passages in French literature.
